Are you ready to transform your home with unique and original artwork? I specialize in large-format abstract art and often my clients request specific sizes and colors for their home, which I am happy to do. Commissioning an artist shouldn't be intimidating or overwhelming – I will make the process simple and enjoyable. Here are some simple steps that will guide you through this collaborative process. I've described each step in more detail below.
1. To start, we'll chat about your vision, and you'll provide photos of the space in your home where the painting will be displayed- this can happen in person or via video chat.
2. We'll determine the specifics of the painting, such as dimensions, style, budget, delivery, and the timeline for the project.
3. Commissioned art fees are calculated by the square foot, and a deposit is required.
4. I'll create small-scale sketches of the piece so you can envision the final version.
5. Once the sketch is approved, I'll custom-build your canvas to your specification. Then the fun part begins!
6. You'll be part of the creative process as your artwork takes shape - I'll be communicating with updates throughout.
7. Once you approve the final product, it will be delivered as planned in step 2. If it's a local delivery, I will personally hang it perfectly in your home!
STEP ONE: EXPLAIN WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR IN YOUR OWN WORDS.
I’m going to take you through my process by walking you through an actual commission that I did recently for a client.
The client contacted me after visiting my studio and seeing me work. Because they were in my studio and I had many paintings displayed we were able have an initial discussion about what colors and compositions interested them most. They then went home and sent me photos of the space the painting would be displayed. This allowed me to get a sense of their interior style and where the painting might live. It gave us a chance to discuss in more detail what kind of feeling or energy that they wanted the painting to bring into their home.
Note: If you’re not local, it’s easy to do this via video chat, phone, or email!
After finalizing some of the painting details like size, type, and timeline, I provided the client with a price quote. I collect a depost up front before I build the custom canvas and begin painting.
Note: If I ship the painting to you, we will discuss different options and how they impact overall cost.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO DISCUSS PRICE WITH YOUR ARTIST.
Only you know how much you can afford to spend on art. You may not be able to buy a huge piece, but perhaps you could purchase a smaller painting or order a custom-sized print that’s more suitable for your budget. You can often get an idea of how much artists charge for their original paintings by checking out their current work for sale.
STEP TWO: SHOW THE ARTIST EXAMPLES OF THEIR WORK THAT YOU LOVE.
Letting the artist know which of his existing paintings you like most is a super easy way to get your custom art commission moving in the right direction. I suggest that my clients look through my available paintings, prints, and previously sold work to help generate ideas for their custom art.
My client loved a particular painting and we used it as a starting point for developing the look of their large scale abstract painting commission.
STEP THREE: APPROVE THE ARTIST’S SKETCHES.
I love using sketches as a tool for abstract painting and commissions. It’s a great way to explore color palettes and make sure that you’re visually on the same page with your client.
Once we’ve discussed colors, composition, canvas orientation, etc I create three to four color sketches that I then emailed to them for approval. This helps the client see how the colors and composition will work. I will not begin working on the final canvas until sketches are approved. This process saves a lot of time and energy for both the client and myself going forward
STEP FOUR: EMAIL UPDATES
After the creative direction is approved, I start work on your painting and send you one or two work-in-progress shots along the way. Feedback on the piece is welcome during this stage.
STEP FIVE: FINAL SIGN OFF AND DELIVERY
When I’ve completed your painting, I’ll send you an image of the final piece. Once you give me the okay that you’re ready for me to deliver or mail it to you, you’ll send me your final payment and I’ll prepare it for shipping.
If you are a local collector, you may pick up the painting in my studio, or for an additional fee, I can deliver and hang the painting myself. If the painting must be shipped, additional shipping costs will be calculated and your painting will be carefully packaged, insured, and mailed. I’ll send your tracking information so you can start planning its welcome home party!
I hope that this has been helpful. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when we think about the big overall thing (whatever that thing is) without breaking it down into steps. Email me if you have any questions about my art commission process and let me know when you’re ready to commission a painting.